I think of my own bjj practice and it's hard to realize that 40 years ago, some guy in Brazil, 1000's of miles away, would have this much of an impact on my life!

On a lighter side, I heard that he was 500 years old and that he doesn't actually die, but hibernates for 50 years to regain strength and he wakes to further his study of martial arts. But my facts could be off on a detail or two.

Hey Lars shup up and have some respect. Carlos Gracie, the creator of BJJ, along with with Helio, the man who polished and popularized the art, is a true inspiration to all Jiu-jitsuka. He trained BJJ every day of his life, Folowed the diet created by his brother (Carlos), and Spread the philosophy of his family art to thousands. I count my self as lucky to have been introduced to his system, and comments like "I can take him" are not acceptable. Why don't you bring you ****-headed comments to a jiu-jitsu academy any where, and see who you could "take." All that you will "take" is a vicious ass-whipping.